With the end of the international break, the Premier League is back this weekend. Unpredictable as ever, the Premier League is all set for another set of exciting fixtures as we head into its eighth game-week. With some high-voltage clashes around the corner, one can expect action-packed matches that are full of drama in the English top flight.
Chelsea are at the top of the Premier League table with 16 points after seven games, followed by Liverpool with 15 points. The Reds are the only unbeaten team in the Premier League. The top two teams are closely followed by Manchester City, Manchester United, Everton and Brighton - all with 14 points after their seventh respective matches.
The Premier League is as competitive as ever and no team can afford complacency in the campaign. Meanwhile, stars like Mohamed Salah have made a strong start to the new season with some majestic displays. The Premier League has no shortage of stars but there are some who are a notch above the rest.
As another game-week approaches, we will take a look at five players who can make headlines with their performances. Without further ado, let us take a look at the
Top 5 players to watch in GW 8 of the Premier League
#5 Raphinha (Leeds United)
Raphinha is slowly turning out to be one of the best Brazilians in the Premier League at the moment. A mainstay in Marcelo Beilsa's setup, the right-winger is demonstrating his might with his performances. With explosive displays on the right flank, Raphinha has been a constant threat to opponents.
The 24-year old has scored three goals in seven Premier League appearances this campaign. Raphinha's ability to constantly create chances for his teammates is also a plus for Leeds.
A visit to Southampton awaits Bielsa's team in their eighth game-week. The Brazilian can definitely trouble their opponent's defense and make his mark.
#4 Michail Antonio (West Ham)
Michail Antonio is enjoying his breakthrough season, displaying his prowess with efficiency in front of goal. The 31-year old has been one of the best players in the Premier League so far, bagging five goals and three assists in just six appearances.
With West Ham set to take on Everton in the upcoming game-week, it will be a tough challenge for Antonio and co. Everton are in good form and it's never an easy place to visit. Much will depend on Michail Antonio, who has proven that he can deliver the goods when needed so far this season.
#3 Joao Cancelo (Manchester City)
With such an immensely talented squad at hand, Pep Guardiola is famous for constantly rotating his players. The Manchester City boss is known for experimenting with his tactics and starting XI, yet Joao Cancelo is seemingly someone he truly relies upon.
The Portuguese right-back is defensively solid and has helped Manchester City keep numerous clean sheets in the league this season. Manchester City have conceded just three goals in their Premier League campaign so far, and the 27-year-old has played a significant part in it. Cancelo is also extremely versatile and can play on both flanks.
Another plus for Cancelo is his attacking threat as he offers many options for Manchester City from the full-back position. With the defender in good form, Cancelo will be one of the players to watch out for this weekend.
#2 Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
No one can rule someone like Cristiano Ronaldo out. Ronaldo is one of those players who can make headlines even when he is not at his very best. Since moving to Manchester United in the summer, the Portuguese legend has been key to Ole Gunner Solskjaer's squad.
Ronaldo has scored five goals in all competitions, with three of them coming in the Premier League. The forward's penchant for being in the right place at the right time is unparalleled, as is his hunger for goals. Ronaldo is also in good form, as was evident in the match against Luxembourg where he scored a hat-trick for Portugal.
With the encounter against Leicester City around the corner, Manchester United will need their talisman to fire on all cylinders.
#1 Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Mohamed Salah is in the form of his life at the moment and has easily been the best forward in the Premier League so far this campaign. Salah's powerful display on the pitch has helped Liverpool fight for top spot as the Reds remain the only unbeaten side in the Premier League so far.
The Egyptian forward's beautiful individual strike against Manchester City in the previous league match just sums up his form. With lightning pace and the ability to get past defenders effortlessly, Salah has been the main threat to any opponent this season.
Liverpool are set to battle Watford in their eighth game-week. With the kind of form Salah is in, he can play a huge role in the match or even dictate the outcome with outrageous skill. He will definitely be the top player to watch out for in this upcoming game-week.